Popular Swimming Pool Shapes
If you have decided to install a brand new pool in your backyard or remodel an existing one, the quality of your outdoor living environment is about to go way up. Keep in mind that there are several different decisions to make, from the size of the pool to added features and other options.
An important choice you will need to make is what type of shape you prefer. There are several different types of pool shapes available, and here’s a quick rundown:
- Rectangular — The most common and classic pool shape, rectangular is a safe bet.
- L-Shaped — This shape is great for backyards with unique landscape features to go around.
- Oval — A mainstay for old Victorian houses, oval pools are a wonderful choice for large yards.
- Geometric — A series of geometric edges will allow you to fit a pool into any backyard.
- Greek — Very similar to rectangular pools except that the corners are tilted at 45° angles or curved inward.
- Roman — Think of a rectangular pool with large semicircles at each end, featuring stairs to relax and sunbathe.
- Free-Form — This non-shape is frequently used in tropical and oasis settings but is not limited at all.
How to Choose the Right Swimming Pool Shape
Since swimming pools last for a very long time and there are a variety of shape options available, you will want to think long and hard about the right shape for your backyard.
Here are some factors to think about:
Space
The biggest thing you will need to consider when choosing a shape for your swimming pool is how much space you have to work with. Most backyards in the country are of average size, so you might not be able to fit an Olympic pool very easily. Or perhaps you have certain landscape features you will not want to remove and will, therefore, need to be worked around.
Appearance
The second consideration for choosing between pool shapes is the actual appearance. Many homeowners like the classic rectangular shape, whereas others prefer an oval, an L-shaped, or something a little fancier. If your main goal is to create a tropical or oasis-like appearance, then you may want to go with a free-form pool that is more indicative of this particular backyard setting.
Functionality
Next, consider what you will be using the pool for. If you want to swim laps in the pool and have the space, you should consider installing a long, slender pool, also known as a lap pool. For a household with kids, you probably want to go with a regular shape, such as rectangular or oval, so there are no hidden corners where little swimmers could go out of sight.
Features
Any features you would like your swimming pool to have may greatly influence its shape. For instance, if you like the idea of a rectangular pool but want to attach a hot tub, this may alter its shape.
Rectangular pools are also great for ledges and in-pool seating. Kidney-shaped pools allow you to easily add bench seating or a tanning ledge at the indentation point. Where you place a slide and what type of slide you install can also influence the shape.
Budget
Everyone knows that budget is often a deciding factor for any home improvement project, and that includes the installation of a swimming pool. Although the shape of a pool typically will not affect the cost, per se, some pool shapes have extra volume to them. This means more materials will be required. Let’s not forget that certain shapes are chosen because of added features, which will also increase your budget.
Contact Larsen’s Pool & Spa to Ask Us About Pool Shapes
Larsen’s Pool & Spa employs the most trusted custom pool builders in Tampa and the surrounding areas. We handle new swimming pool construction and pool renovations. For any questions or to learn about our pool financing options, call (727) 786-POOL (7665) today.
